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Edna Dorothy Atkinson | 1919 – 2017

Edna, who lived in Endell Street nearby, had been in our prayers for some time, particularly since she moved to a nursing home in Oxfordshire, nearer to her closest relatives. She had gradually grown weaker and slightly more confused, and over her last few weeks gave up any desire to eat and drink very much – a familiar story. News of her death was not, therefore, unexpected, but it brought a jolt to the system all the same. Edna was ‘one of us;’ and for a church that seldom uses ‘us’ and ‘them’ language, this is saying much. She brightened the day and added presence to our worship. Her funeral service took place at St Giles on 2nd August. She is much missed.

Children’s events

The second Little Big Camp took place on the afternoon of Sunday, 25th June in the churchyard. I am so grateful to Clare, Oliver and Kate from our congregation for joining with Mary, Anthony, Chi, play leaders from the YMCA, myself and others for making this event so enjoyable. It is through such times that a sense of community is built up – slowly, gradually, with kindness and openness. And as it was so good, we are going to hold another before winter sets in – on Sunday, 17th September, from 2pm to 5pm. If anyone from St Giles could join me and others, it would be much appreciated.

Alongside these weekend events, the first of the Thursday play sessions in the church itself have been held, run in conjunction with the YMCA and supported with a grant from the William Shelton Charity.

First Sunday Giving

The First Sunday collections have continued through recent months and our thanks again to those who have contributed. £343.38 was raised in July for the Safer Streets team, which is also our cause for August, their last of the year.

Homeless art

In the coming weeks look out for a poster exhibition to be displayed on the churchyard railings with photographic art work from residents of St Mungo’s hostel at the top of Endell Street.

Everyone needs to find a way of expressing their experience of life, and those without the security of homes as much as anyone else.

Completion of the stonework renovation project

A project to restore the large stone memorial slabs to the south and east of the church has now been completed. It looks much improved. Our next major project is to provide floodlighting to the church tower, which is currently in the planning stage